"A Man of Principle"
By Ray Barden
395 pages. Black & White photos.
Nyora-born Ray Barden left his hometown for a career in the Victorian Railways, starting as a Lad Porter, where through hard work and natural talent he rose through the ranks to its upper levels of management.
His straight-from-the-shoulder, no nonsense, sometimes blunt management style forged allies and created enemies in the department, in politics and with some rail unions. He was regarded as somewhat unorthodox in style; honest and confronting; tough but fair and a man who could get a job done in the most difficult circumstances.
Ray's 33-year career is bracketed by humble beginnings and an active, interesting semi-retirement which saw him and Carmel, his devoted wife of many years, travelling Australia and overseas, developing their hobby farm and being involved in community activities.